“We live in a time when so many of us feel threatened, excluded, and without a voice in politics. Durham has to expect its local leaders to represent us all, to respect all of our experiences, to be accountable to all of our needs, to look forward, and embody the values of the community,” Alston said in a press release. “I am running because I am eager to take on that responsibility. I will bring a strong and informed voice to City Council. More than that, I will help us all live up to the progressive expectations that we have for Durham.”

Ward 3 incumber Don Moffitt, who been in the seat since 2013, plans to run for re-election, he said.